Apricot (Prunus armeniaca) RAREȘ

Apricot (Prunus armeniaca) 'Rareș'

Very early Romanian variety with sweet kernel and high resistance.

'Rareș' is a modern Romanian apricot variety from the SCDP Băneasa institute. It belongs to the earliest ripening varieties (beginning of June). Despite its early ripening, it produces large, high-quality fruits. Growers also appreciate its weaker vigor (suitable for smaller gardens), sweet kernel, and disease resistance.

Main advantages of the variety:

• Very early ripening (first decade of June).
• Large fruits (60 – 70 g).
• Sweet kernel with a distinct almond aroma.
• Good resistance to Monilinia, Stigmina, Cytospora, and Plum Pox Virus (PPV).
• Weaker tree vigor.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: Romania
• Institution: SCDP Băneasa
• Parentage: B12/6 × NJA 13
• Registration: 2002

Variety Characteristics

Tree

• Vigor: Weak.
• Crown: Medium wide.
• Fruiting: Bears fruit predominantly on short spurs.

Fruit

• Size and Weight: Large, weighing 60 – 70 g.
• Shape and Color: Round-oblong. The color is uniformly light yellow-orange, with fine raspberry-red dots.
• Flesh: Yellow, juicy, good consistency.
• Taste: Very good, balanced, pleasantly aromatic.
• Stone: Medium size, Freestone. The kernel is sweet with a distinct almond aroma.
• Usage: Universal (fresh consumption, processing).

Resistance and Requirements

• Frost resistance: Hardy.
• Disease resistance: Good resistance to Monilinia, Stigmina, Cytospora, and Plum Pox Virus (PPV).

Cultivation Recommendations

• Bearing: Early onset, 3rd year after planting.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: Very early, first decade of June.
• Yield: Good, 30 – 35 kg per tree.